Definition
A set of five aircraft groupings (A through E) defined by approach speed (1.3 times the stall speed in landing configuration at maximum certificated landing weight, or VREF if specified) that determine the applicable circling approach minimums on an instrument approach chart. Category A covers speeds below 91 knots, B covers 91 to 120 knots, C covers 121 to 140 knots, D covers 141 to 165 knots, and E covers 166 knots or more. The pilot must use the minimums for the category corresponding to the actual approach speed flown, and if a higher speed is used, the higher category's minimums apply.
Plain English
Aircraft are sorted into speed groups for circling approaches. Faster aircraft need more room to maneuver, so they get higher minimum altitudes and visibility requirements. You use the group that matches the speed you are actually flying.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts when choosing circling minimums for an aircraft during an instrument approach that ends with visual maneuvering to a runway.
Why Pilots Care
Determines the exact circling radius and minimums, directly affecting whether the approach can be completed safely in the reported weather.
Grounding Statement
A faster airplane covers more ground while turning, so it needs a wider safe area around the airport during a circling approach.
Intuition Check
Do not treat the category as a skill level or aircraft size label. For circling approaches, the category is mainly about the speed you will use, because speed determines how much room the airplane needs to turn safely.
Example Sentence 1
Because we planned to fly the circling approach at 125 knots, we used the Category C minimums instead of Category B.
Example Sentence 2
Because the aircraft was in Category C, the protected circling area extended farther from the runway than a Category A airplane would require.